July 29, 2011 9:33pm EDTJuly 29, 2011 9:05pm EDTThe Miami Dolphins plugged the middle of their 3-4 defense with a sound, playmaking inside linebacker on Friday, coming to terms on a contract with former San Diego Chargers Kevin Burnett.

The Miami Dolphins plugged the middle of their 3-4 defense with a sound, playmaking inside linebacker on Friday, coming to terms on a contract with former San Diego Chargers Kevin Burnett. SN Dolphins correspondent Jeff Darlington reports for the Miami Herald that it's a four-year deal worth $21 million, with $9.8 million guaranteed.

The Chargers were hoping to bring back Burnett to pair with newly acquired Takeo Spikes, especially with fellow inside linebacker Stephen Cooper being a free agent. Miami, however, needed a good run-stopper with a nose for the ball, and Burnett fits that description.

Burnett, 28, broke out in San Diego last season, recording 95 tackles with 6 sacks, 2 interceptions, 2 forced fumbles and a defensive touchdown. He was originally a second-round pick to play in the Cowboys' 3-4 as a backup in 2005. He spent the past two years with the Chargers.

To make room at linebacker before signing Burnett, the Dolphins released Channing Crowder.